Yosemite reopens immediately after shutdown vote

The Associated Press

Posted:
10/17/2013 01:07:18 AM MDT

Click photo to enlarge

FILE - In this Oct. 2, 2013 file photo taken by Tammy Webber, a scenic view on her way to Glacier Point trail in the Yosemite National Park, Calif. is seen. The National Park Service announced late Wednesday night Oct. 16, 2013 that major highways and roads leading into and through the park are immediately open to vehicles.

YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK, Calif.—Yosemite National Park is reopening to visitors Wednesday night with the end of the 16-day partial government shutdown

The National Park Service announced that major highways and roads leading into and through the park are immediately open to vehicles. The park's main concessioner is reopening facilities and will welcome visitors right away.

Its visitor centers and campgrounds will open Thursday, when guided tours will also be available.

The park, one of the most popular national attractions, has been closed since Oct. 1. Its closing brought local economies to a near standstill.

Another California attraction that was closed during the shutdown—Alcatraz Island near San Francisco—will reopen Thursday.